analogy Definition
a comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.
Using analogy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "analogy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
An analogy is often used to explain a complex idea in simpler terms.
Example
The relationship between a cell and its nucleus can be explained using an analogy to a city and its government.
Example
Just as a hammer is a tool for a carpenter, a paintbrush is a tool for an artist - this is an analogy for understanding the relationship between different professions.
analogy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for analogy
Antonyms for analogy
Phrases with analogy
draw/make an analogy
to compare two things in order to explain something
Example
He drew an analogy between the human heart and a pump to explain how blood circulates through the body.
Example
Comparing the human brain to a computer is a false analogy because the two are fundamentally different in how they process information.
Example
The relationship between a teacher and student is analogous to that of a guide and traveler.
Origins of analogy
from Greek 'analogia', meaning 'proportion'
Summary: analogy in Brief
An 'analogy' [əˈnælədʒi] is a comparison between two things, often used to explain or clarify complex ideas. It can be used to draw similarities between different professions, concepts, or objects. Phrases like 'draw/make an analogy' and 'false analogy' use 'analogy' to describe the act of comparing two things, while 'analogous to' denotes similarity or alignment with something else.